Asia Political Map

Asia Political Map ( Click the map to enlarge it! )

Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres. It covers 8.7% of the Earth's total surface area (or 30% of its land area) and with approximately 3.9 billion people, it hosts 60% of the world's current human population. During the 20th century Asia's population nearly quadrupled.

Asia is defined according to similar definitions presented by the Encyclopedia Britannica and the National Geographic Society as 4/5 of the landmass of Eurasia-with the western portion of the latter occupied by Europe-located to the east of the Suez Canal, east of the Ural Mountains and south of the Caucasus Mountains (or the Kuma-Manych Depression) and the Caspian and Black Seas. It is bounded on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the south by the Indian Ocean and on the north by the Arctic Ocean. It contains one country in the Mediterranean Sea-Cyprus. Given its size and diversity, Asia-a toponym dating back to classical antiquity-"is more a cultural concept" incorporating diverse regions and peoples than a homogeneous physical entity Asia differs very widely among and within its regions with regard to ethnic groups, cultures, environments, economics, historical ties and government systems.

Take a deep breath and let your senses explode. From ancient farming villages in India to the futuristic cityscape of Tokyo, Asia provides such variety and contrast it would take many lifetimes to even start scratch the surface.

Above all, is a spiritual place -infused with the gods of past and present: the ancient spirits of the land and the family, the teachings of Buddhism, the deities of Christianity and Hinduism and the rules of Islam. Across the region, scented smoke swirls from millions of joss sticks placed in offering at the many shrines and temples the faithful use to meditate and pray.

Ancient wonders and sacred spaces abound: from the Great Wall of China and the temples of Angkor to lesser-known marvels in Myanmar, Nepal and Afghanistan.

But, Asia is far more than its past. A frenetic buzz surrounds the cities: the fashion, culture and business in Hong Kong, Singapore and many others easily challenges the biggest European and American cities for their status as global hubs.

From sublime coastlines to snow capped mountains, the majestic Mekong River to wildlife infested jungle; Asian landscapes hold an immediacy and vibrancy that captivates and enchants. In a land where tigers still roam free (though far from noisy tourists) nature is still the driving force in many peoples' lives.

And that's without mentioning the food. The freshness and flavour of Asian cuisine is famous the world over; now imagine actually tasting the real deal. With so many cuisines to choose from the only answer is to dive straight in and be prepared for a taste-tingling joy that will take your breath away.